China’s latest protest came after the local government of Kalayaan, the Philippine town that has jurisdiction over seven islands and two reefs in the Spratlys, announced a plan to build a beaching ramp in Pag-Asa Island.

“That is ours, we don’t have to ask permission from anyone to build anything,” Gazmin said, adding that the beaching ramp is only aimed at boosting the economy of the island.

Tourism plans

Aside from spurring economic growth by aiding fishermen, the planned pier is also expected to open opportunities to tourism, according to Gazmin.